If you're planning to use your Texas birth certificate abroad—whether for marriage, immigration, employment, or education—you'll need to get it apostilled. An apostille is an official certification that authenticates your document for international use under the Hague Convention.
Quick Summary
Getting a Texas birth certificate apostilled requires obtaining a certified copy and then having it apostilled by the Texas Secretary of State. When facilitated correctly, the process typically takes 5 to 10 business days. However, if you choose to mail the documents directly to the state on your own, processing can take up to 30 business days, which often causes delays for families and professionals with urgent deadlines.
What is an Apostille?
An apostille is a special certificate issued by a designated authority that authenticates the origin of a public document. For Texas birth certificates, the Texas Secretary of State is the only authority that can issue apostilles.
Apostille Countries
Use apostilles for countries that are members of the Hague Convention (100+ countries including Mexico, Canada, UK, Germany, etc.)
Non-Hague Countries
For non-Hague countries, you'll need authentication and legalization through the U.S. State Department and the destination country's embassy.
Requirements for Texas Birth Certificate Apostille
Certified Copy Required
You must have an official certified copy issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Photocopies cannot be apostilled.
Recent Certificate Recommended
While there's no expiration date on apostilles, many countries prefer certificates issued within the last 6 months.
Original Signatures & Seals
The certified copy must bear original signatures and raised seals from the Texas DSHS registrar.
Step-by-Step Process
Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Birth Certificate
Before you can get an apostille, you need an official certified copy from the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Online Application
- • Visit dshs.texas.gov
- • Complete online application
- • Pay $22 fee per copy
- • 10-15 business days processing
In-Person/Mail
- • Visit local registrar office
- • Bring valid photo ID
- • Complete application form
- • Same-day service available
Submit for Apostille at Texas Secretary of State
Once you have your certified birth certificate, submit it to the Texas Secretary of State for apostille.
Important Requirements:
- • Must be the original certified copy (no photocopies)
- • Document must be unaltered and in good condition
- • Include completed apostille application
- • Pay $15 apostille fee
By Mail
28-30 business days
Walk-in
Same day service
Expedited
1-2 business days
Receive Your Apostilled Birth Certificate
Your birth certificate will be returned with the apostille attachment, ready for international use.
What to Expect:
- • Original birth certificate attached to apostille
- • Official apostille certificate with unique number
- • Both documents bound together securely
- • Ready for international acceptance
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Photocopies
Only original certified copies can be apostilled. Photocopies, even notarized ones, will be rejected.
Wrong Apostille Authority
Birth certificates must be apostilled by the Secretary of State where they were issued - only Texas Secretary of State for Texas births.
Incomplete Documentation
Missing apostille application forms or payment will delay processing significantly.
Damaged Documents
Torn, stained, or altered documents cannot be apostilled. Always handle certificates carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an apostille valid?
Can I apostille a birth certificate from another state in Texas?
What if my destination country isn't part of the Hague Convention?
Conclusion
Getting your Texas birth certificate apostilled doesn't have to be complicated. By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process successfully. Remember to start early, use certified copies only, and double-check all requirements before submission.
Pro Tip
If you need your apostilled birth certificate quickly or want to avoid potential mistakes, consider using a professional service like Texas Apostille Facilitator. We handle the entire process and can get your documents apostilled in 5-10 business days.
Texas Apostille Facilitator
Professional apostille and document authentication service specializing in Texas documents with nationwide coverage. Trusted by thousands for fast, reliable service.